P0252 Code: Injection Pump Fuel Metering Control A Out of Range
🟠 Moderate severity · drivable
Drivable short-term, but the engine may run rough, lose power, or stall. Avoid long trips.
What P0252 means
The engine computer monitors a small valve inside the diesel injection pump that controls how much fuel the pump delivers. This code means the signal from that metering control is outside the expected range, so the pump may not be delivering the right amount of fuel.
Symptoms
- Check engine light is on
- Hard starting or long cranking
- Rough idle or stalling
- Loss of power while driving
- Excessive smoke from the exhaust
Common causes
- most common: Faulty fuel quantity adjuster (metering valve) inside the injection pump
- common: Damaged wiring or loose connector at the injection pump
- common: Worn or failing injection pump
- less common: Contaminated or watered-down diesel fuel
- rare: Engine computer fault
How to fix it
| Fix | DIY? | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|
| Inspect and clean the injection pump connector | Yes | $0–20 |
| Repair damaged wiring to the injection pump | Mechanic | $50–200 |
| Test the fuel metering control with a scan tool | Mechanic | $80–150 |
| Replace or rebuild the injection pump | Mechanic | $1500–4000 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive with a P0252 code?
Yes for short trips, but the engine may run rough, lose power, or stall. If it stalls and won't restart, have the car towed.
What is the most common cause of P0252?
A faulty fuel quantity adjuster inside the injection pump, or wiring and connector trouble at the pump.
How much does it cost to fix a P0252?
Wiring and connector repairs can cost under $200. If the injection pump itself needs replacing, expect $1,500 or more.
Related codes
P0253
P0253 Code: Injection Pump Fuel Metering Control A Signal Low
P0254P0254 Code: Injection Pump Fuel Metering Control A Signal High
P0216P0216 Code: Injection Timing Control Circuit Malfunction
Updated 2026-08. This page is informational and not a substitute for professional diagnosis.